Energetic, enthusiastic, spirited! Dedicated, determined, inspired! Those are just a few of the adjectives that describe the performers, participants, DJs, instructors — and undoubtedly all the behind-the-scenes people, as well — at the 9th annual NY International Salsa Congress. As a salsa newbie, I was impressed by the strong sense of community that pervaded this event, as well as the supportive environment.

As Executive Director John "Choco" Knight told me in a pre-conference interview, salsa dancers are, first-and-foremost, dancers. And, unlike participants at some of the swing and hustle events I've attended, salsa dancers seem to love performing — and social dancing — much more than competing.

Hundreds of dancers at varying skill levels took to the stage during the early and later evening showcases on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. Most performing groups were from the United States, but the United Kingdom, Japan, Mexico, France, Italy, Cuba, Singapore, and Korea were also among the countries represented. Particularly impressive: Maykel Fonts-dynamic duo, and so smooth; Kim and Willem, doing zouk; reKreation Dance Crew from Texas, for breaking the stereotypic tall lean dancer look (other groups also featured "big" dancers — though for health reasons, I hope these youngsters lose weight); Conexion Divina (Missouri), for its fusion number featuring hip hop/funk as well as salsa moves); and Fuerza Latina (Texas) for its Bollywood number. A small group, coached by Nelson Flores, developed and performed a routine in just a few days (survival challenge).

Eddie Torres, Piel Canela Dancers, and other Salsa Congress staples were also in good form. I missed Dave and Zoe (Paradizio Dance)'s number on Sunday night, but heard their acrobatic dance routine was awesome, as usual. Having pros performing in the same slot as amateurs gave each show a nice mix.

Workshops also drew crowds — in some cases, what looked like hundreds of participants — eagerly embracing shines, partner work, and ladies' styling. As for competitions, which are the mainstay of swing, hustle, and ballroom events, well, a surprise. Despite a $15,000 purse, not enough couples signed up for the Friday heats (and no teams registered to compete at all), and so comps took place only on Sunday. Four couples competed in the "strictly on 2" and "anything goes" categories, dancing fast and furiously, with plenty of tricks — very much like a pro show.

I can't imagine where Choco will take us for the event's 10th anniversary celebration, but it's likely to be even more action-and-energy-packed than 2009. Registration is open now, with details on instructors and workshops to be posted shortly.